This month has marked Chinese New Year of the Dog! As Chinese New Year is determined by the lunar calendar, it is a different date each year. The Chinese zodiac follows a 12 year cycle named after different animals – for some this is of great significance… extra prosperity on this auspicious day for any of you born in the Dog year!
Growing up, Chinese New Year was an exciting time of seeing family, eating traditional new year food and receiving red packets (lei see) filled with lucky money.
Our group were again honoured to be involved in Chinese New Year celebrations in Chester Town Centre. We practised for many weeks to showcase excerpts from weapon forms, chi kung and the Wu Style long form. We were rewarded with blue skies, a large audience, and a great spot to later watch the drama of the lion/dragon dances and firecrackers. Pratice to prepare for performance is very different from “normal” practice, in having to consider aesthetics and timing. It has been fun connecting with the cultural significance of our art form and being able to promote the Tai Chi in our local community.
Ji Siu Tai Chi Chuan 